Communication Boards Gain Visibility for AAC Awareness

ROCKVILLE, Md., Oct. 1, 2026 /CourierPR/ -- Communication boards are becoming a common sight in public spaces across the United States, as part of efforts to enhance awareness and inclusivity for individuals who rely on augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). This trend is highlighted by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), which is marking October's AAC Awareness Month by emphasizing the importance of these low-tech, high-visibility tools.

Communication boards are large displays featuring pictures of common vocabulary words, such as "slide," "go," "hi," "play," "bathroom," and "book." These boards are particularly useful for people of all ages who have limited or unreliable speech, allowing them to communicate effectively with others. ASHA notes that more than 2 million people in the U.S. use AAC to communicate, and communication boards are one of the more visible ways that the public can experience AAC in their communities.

These boards are not limited to static displays; portable communication boards can also be seen in various public venues, such as stadiums and concert halls, serving as temporary backups or offering faster access to vocabulary related to specific locations.

Communication boards offer benefits to a wide range of users. For instance, young children who are still learning to speak can recognize and point to pictures before they can verbalize their needs. Similarly, adults who temporarily lose their voice can use these boards to communicate urgent needs. ASHA suggests that anyone can benefit from having access to a communication board, even if they do not have a communication disorder.

Portable communication boards are particularly useful in situations where a person's primary AAC device is charging or when they need faster access to vocabulary related to a specific place. ASHA recommends that when interacting with someone using a communication board, individuals should point to words as they speak, give the person plenty of time to look at the board and choose a word, and stay consistent. Positioning oneself well, taking a picture of the board, and offering choices can also enhance communication success.

The presence of communication boards in public spaces reflects a growing need for the public to learn about AAC and its various applications. These boards are commonly used by individuals with conditions such as apraxia of speech, aphasia, autism, cerebral palsy, developmental delays, and rare genetic conditions. They also reflect an increasing desire for communities to be more inclusive to all populations.